Understanding cultural differences in school environments: perspectives of foreign teachers in Finland

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School of Business | Bachelor's thesis
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Date

2025

Department

Mikkelin kampus

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Mcode

Degree programme

(Mikkeli) Bachelor’s Program in International Business

Language

en

Pages

63

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Abstract

This thesis examines the experiences of foreign teachers working in Finland's education system, focusing on their perceptions of cultural and systemic differences, adaptation strategies, and the challenges and opportunities arising from increasing workforce diversity. Against the backdrop of Finland's record immigration levels and growing reliance on international educators, the study investigates how foreign-trained teachers navigate Finland's distinct educational culture characterized by trust-based autonomy, student-centered pedagogy, and egalitarian values. Findings reveal significant cultural clashes in pedagogical approaches, particularly regarding classroom authority dynamics and assessment practices. Teachers describe complex adaptation processes involving professional identity negotiation, emotional labor, and the development of hybrid teaching practices. While Finland's autonomous work environment is valued, it paradoxically contributes to social isolation, with foreign teachers often relying on informal networks rather than formal support systems. Systemic barriers, including uneven credential recognition, language proficiency expectations, and temporary contracts, limit career progression, despite foreign teachers bringing valuable intercultural perspectives that enrich Finnish education. The study contributes to broader discussions about international worker mobility by demonstrating how cultural values embedded in education systems create both barriers and opportunities for professional integration. It highlights the need for more reciprocal adaptation processes that leverage foreign teachers' diverse expertise while providing structured support for cultural transition. The findings offer implications for Finnish education policy, international worker recruitment, and cross-cultural professional development in increasingly diverse workplaces.

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Thesis advisor

Warhurst, Russell

Keywords

foreign teachers, cultural adaptation, Finnish education, professional integration, intercultural pedagogy, worker mobility, workforce diversity

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https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:aalto-202505113573

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[kand] Kauppakorkeakoulu / BIZ (Open Access)